Best of CASE District V Award
 

Institution: Illinois State University

Title of entry: Deeper meaning: Ciphers reveal more than hidden messages

About this entry: Dr. Katherine Ellison is a professor and chair of Illinois State University's Department of English whose study of secret writing made her a prime candidate for a feature in "Redbird Scholar," our biannual research journal. Ellison's research is more than simply understanding codes and ciphers; it sheds light on how and why humans have utilized secret writing, how it's provided a forum for communicating about trauma and offered a forum for vulnerability, and how the practice promoted literacy.

Ellison's research and collaboration with colleagues across various disciplines spotlights the emphasis on research at Illinois State, and shows readers what research looks like in a discipline rarely recognized in journals.

The story was well received in print and digital presentations and on social channels. It also led to Ellison appearing on the university's flagship podcast.